Come On You Blues (and Reds)!!

They have been shown to protect against heart disease and cancer as well as helping to maintain bone strength, mental health and normal blood pressure.

Who’d have thought that the humble blueberry can also reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease?

Scientists have found that they contain polyphenols, a natural compound that helps us fend off disease creating bad bacteria by reducing their “stickability” to our teeth and gums. This then limits their ill effects on our dental health.

Turns out that it’s not just blueberries that have these polyphenols but cranberries are rich in them too.

These compounds are sugar-free and could possibly be added to toothpastes and mouthwashes.

A note of caution should be added though – because the whole berry contains natural sugars, the consumption of the fruit should be kept to meal times only to reduce the number of times our mouth is exposed to sugar and acid.

I’m delighted that blueberries on my morning porridge are helping keep my mouth in good health as well as tasting delicious.

And when it comes to the argument about whether it’s the Blues or the Reds that are superior, at least when it comes to dental health they are both equally good!